UP Mining Study Centre

Project Description

The 800 seat centre serves as an electronic library to engineering students providing them with access to research as well as design software and printing facilities. There are also additional CDIO facilities for group discussions and group work. CDIO is the framework providing students with an education stressing engineering fundamentals set in the context of CONCEIVING – DESIGNING – IMPLEMENTING real-world systems and products. The second level provides a quiet study area overlooking the lush landscape exteriors and ponds. The design was largely influenced by the structural possibilities of the existing building. Based on minimal support positions on the existing slab and the distance to be spanned across such, an arch-structure was the best solution. The shape further assists in creating inside volume while simultaneously reducing facade heights. The arches are stepped towards the North-West in order to accommodate low sun angles to the West of Engineering 1. The project further includes the upgrade of the existing ablutions on levels below, new ablution facilities, a coffee shop and a university clothing retail shop below the existing bridge, as well as a glazed conference area overlooking the student lawn with magnificent night views onto the Old Arts building.